This species was previously only known from the East Usambara Mountains in northeastern Tanzania. However, records from the Udzungwa Plateau and Udzungwa Scarp in southern Tanzania (with records from Dabaga and Masisiwe), and the Nyika Plateau in northern Malawi, which were previously attributed to Amietia viridireticulata, are now included in this species' range (Channing et al. 2016). Furthermore, Channing et al. (2016) also confirmed records from the Uluguru, Ukaguru, and West Usambara Mountains, the Southern Highlands and Kilombero Valley in Tanzania, and the Taita Hills of Kenya. It has been recorded between 400–1,740 m Asl, but probably also occurs higher, at least to 2,000 m Asl. Its true distribution is unknown, but it is probably also present in the intervening highland areas. Its current range is believed to represent four threat-defined locations.

Habitat and Ecology

It lives along margins of streams in forest. It breeds in water by larval development.

Population

It is quite common in the East Usambaras, but was previously identified it as Amietia angolensis. However, due to ongoing decline in the quality and extent of its habitat, it is thought to be decreasing.

Population Trend

decreasing

Major Threats

It is probably threatened by deforestation for slash-and-burn clearing techniques, logging and wood collection, plantations of exotic tree species (such as teak, pine or eucalyptus), expanding human settlements and agricultural activities, and also by the subsequent siltation of streams.

Conservation NeededOngoing and improved protection is needed for the areas in which it is known to occur.

Research NeededSurveys are needed to determine the population size and distribution.

Red List Status

Least Concern (LC)

Rationale

Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution and presumed large population.

Taxonomic Notes

This species has previously been identified as Amietia angolensis, which has recently been found to harbour cryptic species (Channing and Baptista 2013). A. viridireticulata was synonymized under this species by Channing et al. (2016).